Nov. 17, 2022
After reviewing participant feedback, attendance numbers and other measures, the Worship Committee unanimously recommended that the Session give the green light to continuing our new 9:30 worship service. On Tuesday night, the Session voted its unanimous approval.

“There has been an enthusiastic response and growing participation in this service, and we are excited to see it continue,” said Senior Pastor Scott Black Johnston. “Credit goes to the dedicated launch team and to the Rev. Sarah Speed, the liturgical architect of Chapel Church.”

Chapel Church debuted in Kirkland Chapel on Sept. 25 and continued for an eight-week trial. The innovative service introduced new musicians and a contemporary playlist to the worship space. The “Holy Interruption,” a break in the service when worshipers refilled their coffee cups, grabbed a pastry and greeted friends, proved to be one of the most popular features of the service.

“The last eight weeks have been nothing short of holy for me,” Sarah said. “I am so grateful to this healthy community for encouraging creativity and innovation. I truly believe that Chapel Church can provide another on-ramp to Fifth Avenue for people who are seeking a church home. I am excited to see how God will continue to move in that space.”

Chapel Church will return on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2023. It will continue (with the exception of Easter Sunday) through May 14, just before the church begins its summer worship schedule.

In the interim, lay leaders and clergy will be modifying the service (“more tweaks than major changes,” in the senior pastor’s words) in response to feedback from the Worship Committee and from attendees who completed the Chapel Church survey. Among the modifications planned are:

• Building up a volunteer base of greeters and ushers
• Dividing up liturgy writing and preparation roles among staff
• Investing more in music to develop the best-possible Chapel Church band

In the surveys, attendees praised the many innovative touches that create an informal, yet intimate experience in Chapel Church.

“Wonderful first Chapel Church experience for our family,” one worshiper wrote. “We LOVED the music and coffee break to connect with friends. Writing a prayer request, sharing it, and then receiving someone else’s was very moving.”

Said another: “Hooray for nametags!!! I can’t understate what a big deal it is for community to have nametags. I’ve always said I wished the passing of the peace was 10 minutes long, and now it is!”

One more for the road: “Thank you for creating this inspiring service. It is a different worship experience, however, a wonderful one.”

See you next year.